Devdutt Padikkal has struck two successive centuries in Sri Lanka, solidifying his claim to the coveted No. 3 slot in India's Test batting order. The injury to Sai Sudharsan opened the door for the young star, reshaping the team's middle‑order dynamics.

  • Padikkal’s back‑to‑back centuries lock down the No. 3 position
  • Sai Sudharsan’s injury created an unexpected opportunity
  • India sits strong at 300/5 in Colombo, poised for series win

New Delhi, August 24, 2026 – Young Indian centre‑of‑strike Devdutt Padikkal has cemented his place at number 3 in the Test line‑up after scoring centuries in both matches of the Sri Lanka series. A hundred in Colombo followed by another in Galle has made him the highest run‑scorer for India in the series with 328 runs.

Padikkal’s surge comes after a period of explosive performances across formats. In the IPL, representing Royal Challengers Bangalore, he displayed a strike‑rate of 200, overwhelming bowlers and proving his adaptability from T20 to Test cricket.

Read Also:Tejaswin Shankar and 16 Other Athletes Honored with Arjuna Awards 2025

Historical Background

The No. 3 slot in India's Test batting has historically been a hotly contested position. After stalwarts like Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara, the role has rotated among players such as Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and most recently Sai Sudharsan. Sudharsan’s finger injury just before the Sri Lanka tour paved the way for Padikkal’s breakthrough.

Performance Comparison

PlayerMatchesInningsRunsAverage
Devdutt Padikkal4641869.66
Sai Sudharsan71238331.91

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that securing a stable number‑3 batsman is crucial for India's overseas success. Padikkal’s aggressive style adds depth to the middle order, reducing reliance on traditional anchors and providing flexibility against both pace and spin attacks.

“Padikkal’s temperament for long innings combined with his T20 aggression makes him a unique asset for any Test side,” says former India opener Sunil Gavaskar.
Did You Know?: At just 26, Padikkal has already amassed over 1,000 runs across all three formats, making him one of the fastest players of the decade to reach this milestone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will Sai Sudharsan be able to reclaim the No. 3 slot after recovery?

A: Sudharsan’s return will depend on his fitness and the team’s strategic needs, but Padikkal’s current form makes competition fierce.

Q2: How will Padikkal’s form impact India’s upcoming overseas tours?

A: Maintaining this level of performance gives India a robust middle order, increasing their chances of winning series abroad.